Wyn Jones, once considered one of the top loose-head props for Wales and the British & Irish Lions, has opened up about the tumultuous injury struggles he faced, which have dramatically altered the course of his rugby career. Three years ago, the 32-year-old was set to start for the Lions during their tour of South Africa, garnering attention as one of the key names on the team sheet. Fast forward to 2024, and Jones finds himself as a reserve player with Harlequins, with his international career seemingly on pause.
The injuries began to plague Jones during the Lions' tour of 2021. Just days before the first Test, he was struck down by a serious infection affecting his AC joint. "I was named to start the first Test. I trained on the Tuesday and then I woke up Wednesday morning and [my shoulder] was very stiff. I then had an infection in the AC joint, so by the Thursday I was on a drip in hospital. I was on the drip for ten days and somehow I managed to play the last game," Jones recounted, illustrating the gravity of his situation.
Despite his determination, Jones lasted only 43 minutes against the Springboks, suffering from what he later identified as a trapped nerve in his back. "It was adrenaline got me through," he said, reflecting on the pain he endured. After the match, he was "lying on the floor in the changing room and unable to move." The subsequent agony didn't deter him; Jones continued to play for both club and country, battling through severe discomfort.
Looking back, the Carmarthen native recognizes the toll these injuries have taken on his performance and mental health. "I couldn’t even do a press-up because my AC joint was so sore. I probably should have just put my hands up and gone, ‘Sorry I’m not ready to, my body won’t let me,’" he admitted. Nonetheless, Jones felt compelled to play—for the pride associated with representing Wales and the commitments to his club.
After the Lions tour, Jones struggled to reclaim the form he once showcased consistently for Wales, which eventually led to his omission from the Welsh squad for the 2023 World Cup. Following his release from Scarlets, where he had spent over ten years, he signed with Harlequins, lured by the prospect of fresh challenges. "It was frustrating to leave the Scarlets, but once Harlequins were on the cards, it was a no-brainer. The big thing for me was I had to go somewhere where I knew I’d enjoy playing. I’ve definitely got the hunger back, and I really want to play rugby," he noted enthusiastically.
Despite stepping away from the international scene, his passion for representing Wales remains undiminished. "If Wales ever did give me a ring, I’d definitely say yes, but that's up to them. The moment I wouldn’t want to play for Wales, I’d probably hang my boots up anyway," he asserted, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to national pride and performance.
Jones acknowledged how the long 2021 season affected him both physically and mentally, wishing he had taken more time to recuperate. He wrestled with fatigue as injuries compounded, leading him to play at less than optimal fitness—a dangerous practice for any athlete. "If I had the time back, I would have probably taken more time away just to get the body and mind right to come back playing. You get caught up playing at 50 percent, and it’s tough to say no when you’re asked to play for club or country," he reflected.
Away from rugby, Jones finds solace on his 400-acre sheep and beef farm near Llandovery, where the labor and connection to nature offer him respite and clarity amid the physical aches and mental strains of professional sports. "Working the land helps take my mind off rugby," he said, highlighting the balance he seeks outside the rigors of the pitch.
With his recent move to Harlequins, Jones is motivated to refocus his career and regain the form which initially earned him accolades on both club and international levels. His ambition is clear: to push through the setbacks of the past few years and rise again to represent Wales. He understands the stakes involved and the competition he faces within the sport, yet remains steadfastly committed to proving his worth both to his club and when opportunities arise on the international stage.
Wyn Jones is determined not only to overcome his injuries but also to reclaim his place on the rugby field. His resilience and drive exemplify the spirit of one who refuses to be sidelined; his story resonates with athletes facing similar battles, serving as both inspiration and reminder of the grit required to excel at the top levels of sport.